The New Jersey 87's are proud to announce that Dylan Gutierrez has committed to play Division III hockey for Lebanon Valley College for the 2021-2022 season.

Gutierrez is a 20-year-old defenseman from Santa Ana, California and is in his second season with the 87's. Last year, he recorded 10 points (3g, 7a) in 24 games at the EHL level. This season, Gutierrez's production has skyrocketed with 17 points (2g, 15a) through 18 games. 

Head coach Adam Houli discussed Guitierrez's growth in his second year with the team and how it led to his accomplishment of getting a Division III commitment.

"Dylan had all the tools to be successful when he first got here. It was just a matter of getting comfortable at the junior game with the pace and speed," Houli said. "When he got here it was an adjustment, he worked hard in the offseason, came back and he looked really good from day one. He was focused, he was ready to go and that's why the season has gone the way it's gone with him earning a commitment right before the holiday break."

Lebanon Valley College is a Division III program located in Annville, Pennsylvania. The Dutchmen compete in the United Collegiate Hockey Conference and are led by head coach Don Parsons. 

Gutierrez spoke about choosing Lebanon Valley College and his excitement in joining the program. "It takes a lot of stress off my shoulders, it was a hard process to look at schools, pick one and narrow it down. But I'm glad it was LVC and I look forward to going there," he said.

The second-year blue liner has made incredible strides within the 87's organization. Early last season, he was in and out of the EHL lineup and played six games with the Premier Division team. This season he is averaging just under a point per game and was recognized as an All Star in the Eastern Hockey League. The California native talked about his development as a hockey player in the Garden State.

"When I came into the 87's organization, Matty (Kiernan) and (Adam) Houli definitely wanted to shape me into the 87 way," Gutierrez said. "I knew I had to go down and play some Premier games to really get in that mold, and then it was a lot of growth from there and trust from the coaches to get me where I am now."

The 87's would like to congratulate Dylan and his family as he gets ready to advance his hockey career to the Division III collegiate level.

Photo: Dan Hickling

Graphic: Alyssa Morrison